Delay to decision on Pont scheme may have knock-on effect

An artist impression of the proposed new Ponteland schools and leisure complex.

Published:19:57Friday 06 April 2018

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Temporary accommodation may be needed for Ponteland secondary pupils in September 2019 as Northumberland County Council is still waiting for final approval over its major new schools and leisure centre scheme.

The development was given the green light at a meeting of the local authority’s strategic planning committee in January, but it was referred to the National Planning Casework Unit for determination from the Secretary of State on whether he wants to call-in the application and a decision has yet to be made.

A county council spokesman said: “Due to a delay in receiving the decision, it is becoming increasingly likely that this will impact on the completion of building work.

“We are working closely with local and national partners as a priority to support them in their processing and consideration of the application.

“We will minimise the impact on students, however the delay may result in temporary accommodation being utilised.

“Some preparatory work has already taken place, including tree pruning and service investigation within the existing footpaths on Callerton Lane.

“This is not pre-empting any decision, but is part of the on-going site investigations.”